Welcome to Meena Subramaniam’s art website

I am a professional, self-taught artist who lives near Thekkady in Kerala. My art focuses almost entirely on the natural world that surrounds us. The compositions are a blend of my own exaggerated fantasies of the landscapes I have experienced, with real subjects from in and around a particular locale. These include birds, mammals, butterflies, rare balsams, orchids and ferns. I draw attention to these particular landscapes inviting the viewer’s empathy and awe. I often attempt trompe l’oil, especially with larger canvasses. The medium is mostly acrylic on canvas as it facilitates the kind of texture I apply on my canvasses.

The acrylic technique involves application of several layers of very thin wet on wet acrylic washes in rapid large and small brush strokes, extensive texturing and distinct use of light and highlights. My colours are restricted to a mixed palette, limited to one set of primaries, except for the subjects. I borrow heavily from digital images for accuracy of species. I concern myself with shaping a world, both fantastical and mystical to evoke a sense of wonderment for the viewer.